99 X Eddie Bauer questions

[Elevatorguy]

Guys,
I just looked at a 99 X Eddie Bauer that I am considering buying. The truck is very clean for a 99. I was impressed. It has only 29,000 miles also. Is there any way I can tell if the speedo was ever disconnected? I have heard that these trucks won't shift if the speedo is unhooked. Any truth to this? I have a few questions though. When the truck starts it makes a tapping sound. It sounded to me like a loose heat shield or something. But once the engine is revved up, it went away. I have been reading on here about the timing chains on these trucks (4.0) and was wondering if this is a symptom of a failing timing chain. Was the warranty on this extended to cover 99's? Also, I noticed that the 4WD selector was in the "low" range during my test drive (I asked the owner and he said that the guy that had just driven it before me must have done that). I pulled over and put it into "auto". I played around with the knob a little bit then and it went into 4 high fine and the light lit on the dash. When put into low, though, it wouldn't do anything. The 4 high light went out and the 4 low light did not come on. Is there a trick to putting these into 4 low or is there a problem with this truck? Anything that you guys recommed that I have my mechanic look at specifically? Like i said, this truck appears to be in great shape for a 99. Asking price was 14,900 but I talked him down to 14,500 and I don't think he's going any lower. Any and all responses will be appreciated. I am going to have to act fast on this one I think.

Thanks in advance,
Todd

 

[annabanana]

Hi Todd.

The truck WILL shift with the speedo disconnected. I've had no speedo for the last few months and I shift fine (pretty much ). I'd also check to see if the X has had the 00M12 done to it. I think that problem goes up to '00 Explorers.

As far as the 4WD... I know you have to have it in neutral to shift from 4WD into 4LOW. But the truck shouldn't be in 4WD or 4WD LOW and not have any indicators lit on the dash. Also, check the KBB on that Explorer because $14k sounds pretty high IMO.

 

[Elevatorguy]

Originally posted by annabanana
Hi Todd.

The truck WILL shift with the speedo disconnected. I've had no speedo for the last few months and I shift fine (pretty much ). I'd also check to see if the X has had the 00M12 done to it. I think that problem goes up to '00 Explorers.

As far as the 4WD... I know you have to have it in neutral to shift from 4WD into 4LOW. But the truck shouldn't be in 4WD or 4WD LOW and not have any indicators lit on the dash. Also, check the KBB on that Explorer because $14k sounds pretty high IMO.

Annabanana,
Thanks for the reply. As far as the recall, how do I know if it has been done or not? The guy has owned it for only a year himself (he's getting a company car). Can a dealer check the VIN and tell me if it has been done or not? As far as the 4WD indicator, it did light in 4 high, when I put it into 4l ow it went out. Maybe it was because it wasn't in neutral. I didn't realize that was necessary. As far as the price, I think it is pretty fair. If my mechanic looks at it says it needs work, then we can talk about the price a little more. It's actually a little cheaper than KBB says it's worth. Thanks again for the reply and I look forward to reading all reponses. Anything anyone has to say will be appreciated.

Take care,
Todd

 

[annabanana]

Yeah.. just get the VIN and call any Ford dealer and they can tell you.

 

[Elevatorguy]

Thanks again Annabanana. I would appreciate responses to all of my other questions also from other members.

Thanks,
Todd

 

[Elevatorguy]

BUMP! For a little help here guys....

 

[GJarrett]

If someone turned the switch improperly the setting may be messing up the computer. It is possible to switch to 4lo while moving and since the vehicle will not do it, the computer gets confused and screws up. The vehicle will have to be turned off and then turned back on to reset it to try to get it working again.

To put it in 4lo, you have to have it in neutral and also have your foot on the brake. Restart it, put it in neutral, have your foot on the brake, and wait about two seconds to hear an audible clunk as the transfer case shifts into low. The 4lo light should then be on. With it in neutral and once again with your foot on the brake, shift it out of 4lo and into auto and wait to hear the clunk again. The lights should then turn off and you are in 4auto.

If this does not occur, you need to get it checked.

PS: You can switch from auto to 4hi "on the fly" in another gear while the vehicle is moving. It is only when 4lo is being engaged or disengaged that it has to be in neutral with your foot on the brake.

 

[Elevatorguy]

Thanks GJarrett. How's your 99? Any problems so far?

Todd

 

[GJarrett]

I've had the recalls done, but the only "problems" I've had (that cannot be traced to tearing the crap out of it on the trail) is that I also have the "no display" radio that seems to be common, and I replaced the torque converter at 97k miles.

 

[Hokie]

I LOVE my '99 Sport. Adry (thats her name) always treats me good and I'm trying my best to make sure she's always good and muddy (she likes to play in the dirt )

 

[TPLYNCH]

Another program # to check besides 00M12 is 01M01.